College Costs in James Island, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in James Island, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$657
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
James Island Overview
Population
12,157
Student Population
2,505 (20.6%)
Cost of Living Index
91 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
13/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for James Island
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,152
Total After Financial Aid
$105,152
Annual Cost
$26,288
Annual After Aid
$26,288
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,152 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,194 |
| Total Interest | $38,126 |
| Total Loan Cost | $143,278 |
Universities in James Island
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| James Island State University | Public | $11,916 |
| James Island Community College | Community | $4,841 |
James Island has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in James Island vs. National Average
| Category | James Island | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $657 | $1,050 | -$393 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 100 | -9 |
James Island's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in James Island
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,505 students
James Island has a total population of 12,157, with approximately 2,505 college students (20.6% of the population). As a major college town, James Island offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in James Island
$34,334
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in James Island earn a median starting salary of $34,334, which is -$666 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,152 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,565 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in South Carolina
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,362
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5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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Summerville
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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Hilton Head Island
2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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